On 25 August 2022 Council approved a Strategy, Policy & Finance Committee recommendation to dispose of some reserve sites in Rotorua and enable these to be used for housing, with any proceeds to be used for reserves network improvements.

The recommendation from the Committee followed consultation, hearings and deliberations. A number of changes were made to the original proposal following consultation.

SP&F Committee recommendation approved by Council:

Coulter Road Reserve (Part) to be retained and staff to work with community to identify opportunities to improve reserve.

Steeles Lane Reserve (Part) to be retained as likely unfeasible for development.

Wrigley Road Reserve (Part): Revoke status of part of the reserve and partner with Ko Te Tuara Totara O Fordlands Incorporated Society (KTTToF) to progress housing development (noting this recommendation requires a Local Bill to progress).

High Street Reserve (Part): Progress process for disposal and development of the reserve working with the kindergarten to explore options for the comprehensive redevelopment of the site that improves outcomes for the kindergarten and the function, quality and accessibility of the reserve, noting that any proceeds of sale will be required to improve the quality of the retained reserve area.

171 Clinkard Avenue: Direct sale to Kāinga Ora (noting this recommendation requires a Local Bill to progress). Noting that the proceeds of sale will be used to improve recreation provision on the reserve.

Turner Drive Reserve (Part): Progress two stage process for disposal and development of part (reduced to 50%) of the site and direct reinvestment into Turner Drive Reserve and Western Heights (noting requires Local Bill to progress)

Park Road Reserve (Part): Progress two stage process for disposal and development of part of the site (as proposed) and direct reinvestment into Park Road Reserve and Western Heights.

Linton Park West (Part) – 16 Kamahi Road: Site to have reserve status revoked but decision on disposal or development parked while further investigation and discussions are undertaken with the Linton Park Community Centre, mana whenua and the wider community.

Gallagher Street Reserve: Progress two stage process for disposal and development of the site with proceeds to be used to improve quality of other reserves in vicinity.

Lee Road Reserve to be retained

Council chief Executive to pursue a draft local bill that achieves the recommendations for each of the identified reserve sites.

First right of refusal and subsequent expressions of interest process to be adopted for disposal of sites with criteria to be confirmed in subsequent Council meeting.